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“God knew what he was doing from the very beginning. He decided from the outset to shape the lives of those who love him along the same lines as the life of his Son. The Son stands first in the line of humanity he restored. We see the original and intended shape of our lives there in him” (Romans 8:29 MSG).

You are wonderfully complex, the Bible tells us in Psalm 139:14. To fulfill God’s purpose for you, you have to look at every dimension of your life and understand five factors that influence your identity. So far this week we’ve talked about the ways that our chemistry, our connections, our circumstances, and our consciousness affect the way we are shaped.

If these factors were like the cards you’re dealt in a card game, then the fifth factor would be your wild card. Why? Because that card represents your choices, and that card affects all of your other cards. You may not be able to control the hand you were dealt, but you can use your wild card to change the way you live your life by the choices you make.

The Bible says we are created in the image of God. No other animal was created in the image of God! Dogs have instinct but don’t know the difference between right and wrong. Elephants have no moral compass. But you get to choose to do right or wrong. The freedom to choose is humanity’s greatest blessing and also our greatest curse, because we make foolish choices that harm usand harm everyone around us.

The wild card of choice means –

You didn’t choose your connections, but you can make new relationships and mend or nurture the ones you already have.

You can choose how you respond to your circumstances.

You can choose to stop believing the harmful things people say to you.

Your character is shaped by your choices. What choices will you make today that will positively affect the rest of your life?

Life can leave you feeling hopeless. People across all generations are struggling with grief, relational conflict and financial burdens. Millions of people are overwhelmed with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, PTSD, and other mental health issues. Establishing a daily practice of accessing hope is essential to moving toward better health.

Our vegan leather Journey Toward Hope guided experience journal is designed to inspire hope by connecting you with five profoundly hopeful Biblical affirmations.

The full-color pages are filled with Scripture, practical exercises, prayers, space to reflect, and personal stories to inspire and encourage you.

Journey Toward Hope is our thank you for your donation below to help share Daily Hope with the world — so request your copy when you give. And God bless you for your generosity!